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Call us on 0800 222 733Youth Guarantee programme
If school isn't working for you, you may be able to do some free hands-on tertiary courses through the Youth Guarantee programme.
What is the Youth Guarantee programme?
The Youth Guarantee programme is for 16 to 17-year-olds who have left school, but who want to move into jobs or tertiary study. Youth Guarantee courses are linked to Level 1-3 qualifications on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework, and each course has a clear, job-based outcome.
In 2011, about 2,500 Youth Guarantee places were available from tertiary education institutes throughout New Zealand.
Other things you need to know:
- You'll need to be able to attend classes, as there is no distance learning option under this programme.
- You won’t be able to get a student loan, as the programme is free.
- You may be eligible for a student allowance if you have earned 42 NCEA Level 3 credits, or if you are not being supported by your parents.
Who qualifies for the Youth Guarantee programme?
To qualify, you have to:
- be 16 or 17 years of age, and not be turning 18 within three months of starting study
- new to tertiary education (ie, not have done any tertiary courses before)
- be prepared to enrol in a full-time course for a minimum of one year.
What are trades academies?
- Trades academies will offer courses in a range of areas, including tourism
Trades academies are part of the Youth Guarantee programme, but are for 16 and 17-year-olds who are still at school.
They're a good option if you:
- want to stay in school
- are interested in a career in trades or technology
- want to develop job skills by doing trades and technology courses
Eight trades academies will open around New Zealand in 2011, and more than 800 placements will be available.
What's involved?
Trades academy programmes are full time (25-30 hours per week) and you will be:
- enrolled at school, but may study at another site such as a workplace or polytechnic
- working toward a secondary qualification (Level 2 NCEA or above)
- working toward a trades-related nationally transferable tertiary qualification in Level 1, 2 or 3 as part of the programme.
Your programme may also include some work experience, where you can pick up skills and practical knowledge.
Learning, cultural and emotional support are part of the Youth Guarantee programme
The Youth Guarantee programme is set up to ensure you move smoothly between school, tertiary education and work, so you will receive all the support you need. You will be able to:
- participate in an orientation programme and meet other students enrolled in courses under the Youth Guarantee scheme
- get learning and cultural support
- get career planning and advice
- get counselling
- take part in extracurricular activities.